Babies and Toddlers
Sensory Playtime

Young children learn about the world through their senses, particularly the sense of touch.
But with our littlest learners, a formal sensory program can be a challenge.
They're simply not mature enough to intentionally try different things or make comparisons.
Giving them the tools for safe exploration, however, can help encourage them and
offer the opportunity to learn and grow in new ways.


Add-Ons

Storytimes and music and movement programs naturally have some sensory exploration
built in. The sense of hearing is already being used, and if you add props, they are
also exploring through touch and sight, with different colors and textures to try.

You can create additional opportunities by incorporating playtime at the end of your other programs.
Bring out some colorful toys with different textures so they can play and try new things.
This also gives them the opportunity to socialize and interact with other young children.

Some favorite toys I've used are:
* play balls (the kind used for ball pits)
* larger vinyl balls (particularly ones with bumps or texture)
* Mega Bloks (jumbo LEGO-style blocks)
* stacking rings
* play tunnel


Stand-Alone Programs

Since babies and toddlers can't handle a formal program, any program with sensory
exploration in mind at this age would really just be a playtime.

In addition to the toys mentioned above, you can offer toys or items that introduce
different textures and experiences, such as carpet squares, blankets or pads with
crinkly sections, different types of fabric, wooden spoons (plus things to bang on),
boxes and containers, etc. Put scarves inside a tissue box or dry pasta inside a clear container.

You can also make your own toys, incorporating supplies you may have on hand or purchase.
For example, I created sensory toys using plastic water bottles. I placed plastic necklaces
and other colorful items inside the bottle (about 1/3 to 1/2 full), then took several
strands of colorful ribbon, knotted the pieces together, and threaded them through
a hole in the cap of the bottle so the ribbons hung outside the bottle.
Once I replaced the cap, I hot-glued the cap on so everything would remain secure.
The items inside move around as the bottle is shaken or turned, making noise, and
the ribbons can be played with, as well. The bright colors stimulate little ones' sight,
and even just squeezing the bottle can make a crinkling noise.

If you opt to create your own toys, make sure there is no danger of small items escaping.
Examine all toys periodically to ensure they are in good condition, with no sharp or
hazardous parts that could endanger small children.
You'll also want to make sure that anything you use is non-toxic, with no sharp edges
or choking hazards that the little ones can put in their mouths.

Whether in conjunction with other toys or separate, you can also make available baskets
or containers that babies and toddlers could fit inside, to be driven around the room
like a car, jiggled back and forth, or simply used as a play area.


Use your imagination and see what you have available to create a sensory playground
for your little patrons and their caregivers.